Your Ultimate Guide to Gatwick Airport

October 18, 2015

As the second largest airport in the UK, London Gatwick (LGW) is home to the world’s busiest single runway. With 45 airlines operating from here, this airport manages to take 39 million passengers to 200 destinations every year.

That said Holiday Hypermarket has put together an ultimate guide to Gatwick Airport to make sure you have the smoothest airport experience possible. From getting to the airport, to on-site facilities and car parking you can’t go wrong if you follow our guide.

Getting there

Located just 24 miles from central London and close to Crawley in West Sussex, there are a number of transport options to choose from when travelling to Gatwick Airport.

Train – If you’re travelling by train the Gatwick Express is the best option as it is the quickest link between the airport and central London.

Bus/Coach – There a plenty of coaches which offer direct services to Gatwick and run from 400 UK towns and cities.

Car – If you don’t want to rely on public transport then Gatwick Airport is directly linked to the M23 motorway at Junction 9 and to the A23 London- Brighton road. Therefore, it can be easily reached by car.

Hotels

If your flight leaves early and you want a good night’s sleep before your departure then we suggest staying in one of Gatwick’s airport hotels. Choose from a range of stays including Bloc, located in the South Terminal, Hampton at Hilton, which is connected to the North Terminal or the Sofitel for some before-your-flight luxury, which can also be found at the North Terminal.

Car Parking

Car parking can be found at the airport and as one of the UK’s largest airports, you have a number of options. You can choose between, budget, premium or even meet-and-greet packages. Plus, with 24-hour CCTV and regular patrols your vehicle will be in safe hands.

Check-in

On arrival at Gatwick Airport the check-in zone will be clearly signposted. However, to avoid queues we suggest that you get to the airport early in case there are any delays. Flight information screens can also be found at the entrances of each terminal – this is where you’ll find out your check-in desk. Some airlines also allow you to check in your bags a day in advance, which is great for anyone staying in a nearby hotel.

Airport Lounges

There are a range of airport lounges to try out at Gatwick whether you’re travelling with children, for business or leisure. Offering free unlimited Wi-Fi, a range of complimentary snacks, and widescreen TVs, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable airport experience if you book a lounge.

Bars and Dining

Depending which terminal you’re flying out of, there are lots of dining and drinking stops to take advantage of while waiting for your flight.

North Terminal

In the North Terminal you’ll find a good mix of eateries from Jamie’s Italian if you’re after a sit down meal, Pret A Manger if you’re after a quick snack or there’s always YO! Sushi where you can sample a taste of Tokyo.

Are you in desperate need of a bar? Then Gatwick’s North Terminal has just what you’re looking for with its good selection of drinking hubs such as a Wetherspoons, which is well-known for its budget-friendly prices and Caviar House & Prunier, which is renowned for its award-winning wine.

South Terminal

From everyone’s favourite Italian diner Frankie & Benny’s, to new addition Nando’s and fast food option McDonald’s, there are plenty of places where you can grab some pre-flight food In the South Terminal.
There are also a number of drinking spots such as two Wetherspoons and a London Bar where you’ll find a great range of wines, cocktails, and bubbly if you really want to push the boat out.

Shopping

From much-loved highstreet brands to luxury designer labels, Gatwick Airport has a great range of airside shops to take advantage of.

Kids Zones

Gatwick is the ideal choice if you’re travelling with children. With its very own kids zones located in both the North and South terminals, flying with kids has never been easier. Sit back and relax while your children play and watch TV – and at no additional cost, this is a great way to keep the kids occupied before boarding your flight.

About the Author

Meet Adele. A regular to the Balearic Island of Ibiza and the famous party hotspots, she is in the know for the best parties of the season across the continent. She can help you pick the best hotels to make sure you are not too far from the action and recommend the hidden gems for a bite to eat. Travelling as far as Mexico for a party holiday Adele is also our go-to-girl for the latest fashion, trends and beauty advice.